A date with the Lord of APC-FDM

The annual retreat of the Association of Pauline Cooperators-Friends of the Divine Master (APC-FDM) Davao chapter for regaining sight of life once again started. Themed “Wake up the world with the light of the gospel” the 14 members held their retreat at Marie Rivier Retreat House on September 29-October 1, 2017.

The retreat master Fr. Norman Melchor R. Peña Jr SSP, PhD from Cavite Philippines taught simple prayers (Secrets of Success) that turned out to be a story of unconditional trust in God of our founder Blessed Fr. James Alberione. It was surprising to know that it was anchored on Matthew 6:36 “Seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things shall be given unto you.”

The members were surprised with the actual re-echo of how they too will share what they have learned to the other members of the Pauline Family. Furthermore, learning became fun because the group had received instant comments on what were the needed improvements for them.

The retreat had a morning prayer (lauds) followed by a Holy Mass, an evening prayer (vespers) and the “silence” mode after all the activities. According to Sr. Christine PDDM, the group in-charge “this allotted days are date with the Lord. Time to thank God for life’s blessings and also to ask for inner strength to help you sustain for another year.”

Confession was also a major part of the activities, it was a unique confession because it was not just a confession of sins committed but also a confession thanking God for the happiness that occurs at that time.

For his parting challenge to the members, Fr. Norman shared a copy of another important book that contained statutes every Pauline members must read, know and follow! (Marietta Comighud)